zooTampa australia

Australia Realm NOW Open at ZooTampa and it’s Awesome!

It’s the moment we’ve all been waiting for…the Australia Realm at ZooTampa is officially open and it was worth the wait, friends!  We got a sneak peek a few days before the opening day as the final touches were added.

You can expect some NEW things to experience with the kids like the much anticipated new safari ride, Aussie Trek (pictured at top) which replaces the old train ride. There is also a new, expanded Billabong Splash Pad with a Boomerang bar nearby for parents to sit back and relax. The Outpost Grab & Go is also expanded with self-check out features added to help speed along the lines.

Just a part of ZooTampa's NEW Billabong Splash Pad in the Australia Realm
Just a part of ZooTampa’s NEW Billabong Splash Pad in the Australia Realm. Photo by Laura Byrne.

We are also excited about the addition of a new towering playset for the kids to get their wiggles out and the return of the covered Koala Clubhouse playground.

Other returning favorites are the Sydney Station Barnyard, Boomers Flying Bananas ride, Tasmanian Tiger coaster, and the Koala Signature Encounter.

You can also experience the NEW Wallaby Signature Encounter and don’t forget about the NEW Stingray Shores! It’s all part of the Year of More at ZooTampa and we are loving it.

The bathrooms have been revamped too to include a private nursing room for new moms.

ZooTampa will be operating on extended hours during spring break, staying open until 7 pm daily through March 17 and on weekends through the end of April.

Returning favorites are back at ZooTampa!
Returning favorites are back at ZooTampa like Koala Clubhouse. Photo by Laura Byrne.

You can even spend your afternoons relaxing to the beats at Sunset Sips in the Australia Realm where there will be a dance party beginning at 3 pm and BOGO on domestic beers and specialty foods at the Boomerang Bar.

Don’t forget to stop by to see the Prehistoric Predators exhibit too! it’ll be on display through April 14.